Deviance - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Deviance refers to behavior that violates social norms or expectations, often viewed as unacceptable by society. It can range from minor infractions to serious crimes, depending on cultural context.
Definition:
Behavior that violates social norms or expectations, often considered unacceptable.
Synonyms:
nonconformity, aberration, defiance, transgression
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
conformity, obedience
Common Collocations:
social deviance, sexual deviance, criminal deviance, cultural deviance
Derivatives:
deviant, deviancy
Usage Tips:
Use "deviance" to describe actions or behaviors that stray from accepted societal standards.
Common Phrases:
deviance from the norm, acts of deviance, patterns of deviance
Etymology:
From Latin "deviare," meaning "to turn aside," combined with "-ance" indicating a state or quality.
Examples:
- 1. Her deviance from school rules led to detention.
- 2. The study examines cultural factors influencing deviance in urban areas.
- 3. Some view tattoos as a form of artistic expression rather than deviance.
- 4. Sociologists analyze how societies define and punish deviance differently across cultures.